Reflections on Our First Winter at the Ranch

It’s hard to believe, but after this weekend, it feels like our very first winter here at the ranch is finally turning toward spring. It has been a season of deep freezes, long nights, and steep learning curves—but it’s also been incredibly rewarding.

Facing the Elements

The extreme cold spells definitely gave us some headaches. When the mercury drops deep below -30 (which was that time colder then in Lapland), everything becomes a challenge. However, we went into this with the right mindset. The survival skills I learned back home—preparing for water shortages, prepping for power outages, and keeping the infrastructure running—were put to good use. Luckily, we didn't lose power, but being mentally and physically prepared for it made all the difference.

The Dawn-to-Dusk Grind

There are days when the "to-do" list seems endless. When you start your chores at 6:00 AM and find yourself still working as night falls, it’s easy to feel exhausted. Ranch life is a constant cycle of feeding, watering, checking fences, and ensuring the animals are safe and warm. But despite the tired muscles and the freezing wind, I wouldn't trade a single day of it away. There is a profound sense of peace in this life that makes every hour of labor worth it.

Looking Ahead: Green Pastures and New Life

I am eagerly looking forward to spring and especially the summer. I can already picture the horses finally heading out onto the large, lush pastures, enjoying the freedom and the fresh grass.

Gazing at the sleeping pastures under a heavy frost.

But before we get to the quiet days of summer, there is one major milestone ahead of us: lambing season. The barn will soon be filled with the sound of new life.

Spring is coming to Maple Hill, and we are ready for it.